The ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ song is an old favourite, going back to the 1940s. It was first written and performed by the Sam H. Stept and Lew Brown team, most famously as a number one in 1942, as sung by the Andrews Sisters. It has been interpreted many times since then, making it into a wide range of genres. What makes this song so uniquely appealing is its enduring power to convey both fun and romantic sentiment in a catchy yet simple melody.
The lyrics of ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ tell a story of warning, love, and persuasion. The chorus centers on the phrase ‘Don’t sit under the apple tree with anyone else but me’, a strong suggestion that romantic partners should remain exclusive. This idea is further established in the bridge that follows with the words ‘’Til I come a-marching home’, as the song’s narrator encourages the other person to remain loyal and faithful until they are reunited again.
Musically, ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ is equally beloved. The song’s signature is its unique blend of swing and blues influences, providing an upbeat, infectious atmosphere. Its catchy horn and saxophone riffs, syncopated rhythms, and small sections of diminished harmony draw attention and create a longing mood.
The success of ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ is undeniable, with versions recorded by everyone from Glenn Miller to The Beatles. The song has featured in many forms of media, becoming an iconic piece of popular culture. In the present day, it still stands out as a fun and romantic jazz favourite, providing nostalgia and enjoyment both live and on record.
The lasting appeal of ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ can be attributed largely to its enduring themes of romantic devotion. Despite being written nearly eighty years ago, couples around the world still relate to this song’s message of loyalty and patience. Re-recorded multiple times and used in many forms of media, it is clear that this song will remain a loved classic for many more years to come.
History
The ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ song is thought to have been written around the early 1940s, however, the exact origin is uncertain. It was composed and performed by Sam H. Stept and Lew Brown, and was then popularised through the Andrews Sisters’ cover in 1942. The song gained further popularity when it was performed several times by Glenn Miller and His Orchestra, releasing chart-topping versions in the USA. It was also covered by the likes of The Beatles, Ella Fitzgerald, and Bing Crosby.
The most famous version of ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ was the Andrews Sisters’ recording. It ended up topping the Billboard charts for twelve weeks, making it one of the most successful hit records of World War II. After its success, the song made its way into the annals of jazz music, becoming a treasured favourite for generations to come.
Lyrics
The timeless ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ lyrics talk of romantic devotion and patience. The song’s plot follows an estranged couple and the narrator’s plea for their partner to remain faithful until their return. This is expressed vocally through catchy swing rhythms and blues influences.
The chorus of ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ contains the main message: ‘Don’t sit under the apple tree with anyone else but me’. It is the protagonist’s warning that the other person should stay committed to their relationship and wait to be reunited. The bridge then echoes this sentiment more strongly with the words ‘’Til I come a-marching home’.
The verses of ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ deal with the narrator being away and longing for the return of their lover. They suggest that being patient will bring them love again. ‘Oh, did I forget to mention why I am going away? Everyone will give me true consolation when I come back some day’. This romantic idea of being reunited with the one they love is the main concept behind the song, and it’s no wonder it’s been so popular over the years.
Origins
The ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ song originated during the 1940s. It was first written by Sam H. Stept and Lew Brown for the Andrews Sisters. The song was first released as a single on Decca Records, and then adapted into a pop classic. It gained traction through the Andrews Sisters’ multiple renditions and successful covers by The Beatles and Glenn Miller.
The origins of ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ have been much debated. Some have suggested the lyrics are from a traditional sea shanty, while others have attributed the song’s melody to a traditional Gaelic tune. It is likely that it was a mixture of influences, combining traditional music with modern jazz and swing.
Due to its growing success, ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ was included on two of the Andrews Sisters’ albums, and later featured on many others over the years. The most notable versions are by the Glenn Miller Orchestra, Bing Crosby, and Ella Fitzgerald. Many contemporary artists have also released their interpretations, taking the classic song into different genres, such as blues, jazz rock and modern pop.
Modern Interpretations
Since it was first released, ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ has been adopted in many forms of media. It has been featured in classic Hollywood films, such as The Glenn Miller Story, as well as being included in books and other media productions. In contemporary society, it continues to remain a popular jazz tune, heard in bars and music venues around the world with altered arrangements.
The song has also been covered by a range of modern artists, such as Adele, Paloma Faith and Michael Bublé. Adele’s version is a contemporary take on the original with a modern vocal interpretation, whereas Paloma Faith opts for a slower, emotive rendition. Michael Bublé’s version, however, pays homage to the classic style, with subtle swanky saxophones and soulful vocals.
In addition, ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ has also made its way into television shows, X-Factor performances, and The Voice. It has become so popular that it will likely still feature in modern entertainment for years to come.
Stylistic Influences
The appeal of ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ lies in its unique blend of swing, blues and jazz influences. These genres draw on the sounds music of the 30s and 40s, with their infectious horns, bold rhythms and vocal phrasing. This combination is what makes the timeless ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ such a beloved classic.
The swing style is characterised by its syncopated rhythms, which feature playful syncopation and accents in unexpected places. It was popularised in the early 20th century, and it includes instruments such as saxophones and trumpets, as heard in ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’. Blues music is also present, which is characterised by its call-and-response melodies, diminished harmony and soulful lyrics.
The mix of jazz, swing and blues makes ‘Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree’ a song truly ingrained in tradition. This combination of vintage sounds is what has helped keep this classic track relevant in modern day culture, and it is likely that its popularity will be vibrant for some years to come.
